Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla calls for renewed commitment to constitutional values on Constitution Day

Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla said Constitution Day is of perpetual relevance. It is a time to introspect upon the basic tenets that have formed the foundation of India, and an occasion to renew collective commitment to preserving the ideals enshrined by the framers of the Constitution. He was speaking at the Constitution Day observance held at the MFDC Auditorium in Imphal, which was attended by MLAs of Manipur Legislative Assembly, senior government officials, and students.
The Governor recalled that Constitution Day, celebrated on November 26 annually, marked the day of the historic adoption of the Constitution by the Constituent Assembly in 1949. He said the drafting of the Constitution was an extraordinary journey with almost three years of debate, incisive analysis and visionary leadership. While the Constitution actually came into force with full effect on January 26, 1950, the date of November 26 marks the date when India chose justice, liberty, equality and fraternity as the cornerstones of the nation.
Bhalla underlined that the Constituent Assembly began its work at a time when India was emerging from colonial rule and was confronting deep social and economic challenges. He said the makers of the Constitution had carefully studied global models and the diverse social fabric of India to create one of the most resilient democratic frameworks in the world.
The Governor specially hailed Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, chairman of the drafting committee, as a scholar with clarity of thought and unwavering commitment to social justice. He also acknowledged the contributions of B.N. Rao, Aladi Krishnaswami Aiyar, K.M. Munshi, T.T. Krishnamachari and other distinguished members who made sure that the Constitution protected individual rights, limited state power and institutionalised accountability. Bhalla referred to Dr. Ambedkar’s reminder that even a good constitution can fail if those entrusted with implementing it do not uphold constitutional morality.
He referred to the Constitution as a document that protects citizens through fundamental rights, drives social transformation through directive principles, and balances powers between institutions; the true importance of the Constitution lies not merely in its articles but in the spirit it provides for democratic governance.
He said that for Manipur, the Constitution had been an anchor of democratic governance, social harmony, and inclusive development. The Governor said that the people of the state have upheld constitutional values even during difficult times through their commitment to rule of law, protection of diverse communities, strengthening of local self-government institutions, and celebration of cultural plurality.
Emphasizing the role of youth, Bhalla added that the Constitution should be looked upon as a source of empowerment and responsibility. He called upon young citizens to promote unity, shun violence, accept dialogue and protect the rights and dignity of every community, particularly when technology and global exposure are fast changing the face of society.
While asserting that the Constitution is the concern of every citizen and not of the judiciary, legislature, or executive alone, the Governor called for a renewed commitment to constitutional morality guided by awareness, compassion, and respect for the rule of law. The Governor urged the people of Manipur, especially the youths, to read and understand the Constitution and to take forward the ideals set forth by the makers of the Constitution.
He called for collective efforts towards strengthening democracy, protecting unity, and making justice and equality a reality to be lived by every citizen.